Ingredients

Directions

Prepare desired-flavor cake mix according to package directions. Use any suggested pan size and bake according to package directions. Cool in pan on a wire rack. Line trays or baking sheets with parchment or waxed paper; set aside.

Remove cooled cake from pan and crumble into a very large mixing bowl. Add desired-flavor frosting. Beat with an electric mixer on low speed until combined. Using a small scoop, drop mixture into 1 1/2-inch mounds onto prepared trays; roll mounds into balls and freeze for 30 minutes.

In a small microwave-safe dish heat 1 ounce of the coating (about 1/4 cup) on 50% power (medium) for 60 seconds until melted and smooth, stirring once. Dip one end of each lollipop stick into melted chocolate and poke sticks into balls (this helps the balls stay on the sticks). Freeze for 30 to 60 minutes more or until balls are firm.

Place remaining candy coating and chopped chocolate in a small saucepan. Heat over medium-low heat until melted and smooth, stirring frequently. Working in batches, dip balls into melted chocolate mixture. Allow excess to drip off; place balls on clean waxed paper-lined trays or baking sheets.** After coating is set, transfer to storage containers and store, covered, in refrigerator. Let stand at room temperature at least 30 minutes before serving.

From the Test Kitchen

Raspberry Truffle:

Use white cake mix, Raspberry Frosting, semisweet or dark chocolate, and chocolate-flavored candy coating for dipping. Before freezing the mounds of dough in Step 2, form each mound around a fresh raspberry.

Chocolate-Covered Cherry:

Use chocolate cake mix, Almond Frosting, semisweet or dark chocolate, and chocolate-flavored candy coating for dipping. Before freezing the mounds of dough in Step 2, form each mound around a well-drained maraschino cherry.

Basic Butter Frosting

Ingredients

Directions

In a medium mixing bowl beat butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth. Gradually add 2/3 cup powdered sugar, beating well. Slowly beat in 2 tablespoons milk and vanilla. Gradually beat in the remaining 2 cups powdered sugar. If needed, beat in additional milk, 1 teaspoon at a time, to make a frosting of spreading consistency.